Parents Rip Nick Jr. For ‘Firing’ Moose and Zee

CHICAGO (CBS) — Change is hard, but it appears the new format on one cable network is just too much for many parents and their children to take.

It’s like to Occupy Wall Streeters grew up, had kids and turned their wrath on children’s television.

Parents have taken to Nick Jr.’s Facebook page–or more accurately taken over the Facebook page–ranting about changes in format on Nickelodeon’s Nick Jr.

It seems most of the anger centers on the loss of Moose and Zee–the cute little characters who often appeared between shows, instead of commercials. They were like animated emcees–guiding viewers to the next show or offering a sweet little song or silly joke.

Facebook is lighting up with angry rants.

Here’s one post: “Were is my child’s best friends in the whole entire world, Moose n Zee???? She wud love to hv her friends back.. O n btw she is starting to make new friends on Sprout n untill Moose n Zee r back they may become permenate friends. I love nick jr, but u changed so we will too!! BOYCOTT!!! Thts the word of the day!!”

And another: “WHAT HAPPENED TO MOOSE AND ZEE??? AND WHY IS YO GABBA GABBA ONLY ON FROM 12:00 AM TO 1:00 AM IN THE MORNING?? WHY DID NICK JR. CHANGE UP THE SHOWTIMES FOR ALL OF THE SHOWS??? I WANT MOOSE AND ZEE BACK!!! WHAT IS GOING ON???”

And another: “WHERE ARE MOOSE AND ZEE!? You can rebrand the channel without getting rid of them. They taught wonderful lessons between shows. Now I just have ads telling me to go to your website?! I’m not at the boycot stage but I really don’t understand. My daughter misses her friends.”

Nick Jr., with the new catchphrase “The Smart Place To Play,” said on its official website: “Nick Jr. has a brand-new look that brings to life an exciting, interactive world that’s as bold, colorful, and imaginative as our shows. Nick Jr. is still the home of the most entertaining and educational programs on television, and we’re highlighting that in new ways that will be fun and enjoyable for your child.”